GOP majority in Ohio Senate remains unchanged

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) -- Republicans in the Ohio Senate will keep their majority with the same number of seats next year after a Democrat fended off his GOP challenger.

State Sen. Lou Gentile (gin-TYLE'), of Steubenville, beat Republican Shane Thompson, of St. Clairsville, to keep his seat in eastern Ohio.

According to unofficial results, Gentile won early Wednesday morning with almost 53 percent.

The GOP had majorities in the House and Senate going into Tuesday's election.

Republicans hold a 23-10 edge in the Senate, and they will continue with that margin next year.

It remained unknown what the final breakdown would be in the House. The GOP captured a 58-38 advantage on Wednesday, with three races that were too close to call. Democrats expressed confidence Wednesday that not-yet-counted ballots would give them the seats.